Accounting Manager (Manufacturing Background Needed) - Melbourne, FL

We are looking for a high-performing, hands-on Accounting Manager who can execute quickly and accurately and thrives in a fast-paced environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, taking ownership of the monthly close, process strengthening and redesign, drive GAAP compliance to ensure 2025 audit readiness, working directly for a strong CFO while making an immediate impact. The Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the accounting department, ensuring accuracy and compliance in financial reporting, and supporting organizational goals through effective financial management.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Oversee accounting operations:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the accounting department, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, job costing, and financial statement preparation.
• Ensure the timely and accurate processing of financial transactions in accordance with GAAP.
• Build structure: close checklists, schedules, SOPs, documentation
• Implement and maintain accounting policies to ensure efficiency and compliance.
• Lead and perform the monthly close, variance analysis and other tasks as required
• Implement GAAP positions (ASC 606, 842, capitalization, accruals, etc.)
• Manage AR / AP, payroll and timekeeping support.

Close Execution

• Ensure all subledgers (AP, AR, Payroll, Inventory, Fixed Assets) are closed and reconciled on time.
• Prepare, review, and post all journal entries (accruals, prepaids, depreciation, amortization, payroll, allocations, etc.).
• Perform and approve balance sheet reconciliations; research and resolve reconciling items.
• Review P&L and balance sheet variances, identify unusual fluctuations, and propose corrections.
• Validate revenue and COGS entries and ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Record journal entries with complete audit-ready support
• Maintain and update close checklists, calendars, and dependencies.

Compliance and internal controls:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable GAAP accounting standards, regulations, and internal controls.
• Ensure compliance with all accounting policies and procedures.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of internal controls, strengthening where needed.
• Ensure 2025 audit readiness
• Serve as the point person for auditor and investor requests.

Collaboration and communication:

• Strong written and verbal communication
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Time management and prioritization
• Ethical judgment and confidentiality
• Accurate and timely financial information.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field. CPA Preferred.
• 5-10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Ability to product accurate, complete and timely financial information in a fast-paced environment (work well under pressure)
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and internal controls.
• Significant experience in General ledger (GL) management, month-end close, balance sheet reconciliation and supporting schedule preparation in a project based, high-tech manufacturing environment
• Public Accounting or direct experience in managing external audits with third-party CPA firms.
• Experience preparing audit-ready documentation
• Advanced proficiency in ERPs and Excel.
• Strong knowledge of ASC606 revenue recognition practices in aerospace and defense, government contracts or a project based manufacturing and SaaS
• Strong Cost accounting knowledge (for manufacturing or project-based orgs)
• Public Accounting and Aerospace / Defense expertise strongly preferred
• Experience with DCAA compliance, cost accounting, cost pools and government reporting highly desirable
• Experience with investors and setting up data rooms a plus

Leadership and Management Skills:

• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team.
• Strong ability to collaborate cross-functionally and ensure data inputs are timely and accurate
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills; effective time management and prioritization.
• Ability to delegate effectively and manage multiple priorities.
• Self-motivated self-starter; willing to challenge the status quo
• Strong Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex data, solve problems, and provide actionable insights.
• Commitment to confidentiality, integrity, and continuous improvement
• Detail-oriented and analytical with a strong work ethic.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including auditors, investors and tax advisors.